State Rep. Anna Moeller, D-Elgin, is urging the governor to sign legislation that will punish criminals who, for financial gain, pretend to be military veterans as soon as it crosses his desk.

"It is appalling that there are people willing to lie about serving in the military just to make money," Moeller said. "We must fight back and punish these criminals who pretend to be honorable veterans and this measure is a step in that direction."

Moeller is a sponsor and helped pass Senate Bill 2167, which enhances the offense of false presentation to include when someone receives money, property, or other benefits by falsely claiming to be an active-duty or veteran service member. While this offense does not currently exist, there are similar offenses in place to address people who misrepresent themselves as public officials for monetary gain. The measure is supported by the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) and passed out of the General Assembly with strong bipartisan support.

"Lying about having a military record when, in fact, you don't have one is a very serious matter," Moeller said. "I urge the governor to sign this measure as soon as it comes to his desk in order to deter criminals from trying this in the future."

For more information, please contact Moeller's constituent service office at 847-841-7130 or email StateRepMoeller@gmail.com.

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